UPDATE: In a troubling shift, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has begun detaining entire families for questioning at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City. This new tactic follows a chaotic raid on Canal Street, escalating fears among immigrant communities just days ago.
Sources reveal that ICE agents, often masked, are now rounding up families instead of conducting aggressive physical arrests. The latest incidents occurred last week, where families were intercepted immediately after leaving immigration court. In one case, a Russian family was approached by an ICE agent who said, “We need to ask you some questions,” before ushering them into an elevator. Their fate remains uncertain.
Witnesses report the atmosphere inside the immigration court has turned increasingly tense. Peter, a court observer, expressed serious concern over these new detainment practices. “Detaining entire families, even temporarily, represents a serious escalation of tactics,” he stated. “When a family simply disappears, they are left without crucial resources for support post-detention.”
This alarming strategy marks a stark contrast to previous months, where detainees experienced physical confrontations. The change in ICE’s approach appears designed to minimize media scrutiny while maximizing psychological impact.
On October 23, 2023, Congressman Dan Goldman made an unannounced visit to the immigration court, confronting masked agents demanding they show identification and clarify their authority. This intervention came as families were exiting a courtroom, with one father holding his child being stopped in the hallway, prompting his wife to plead for mercy. Press photographers captured the tense moment, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
In another incident, a woman awaiting an elevator was approached by federal officers who rifled through her paperwork, leaving her visibly shaken. She broke down in tears after the encounter, illustrating the emotional toll these detentions are inflicting on families.
As families rushed to the elevators, they were seen frantically pressing buttons and climbing over each other, fearing they might be next. The distress was palpable, with one observer noting that the press and political presence likely played a role in some families being allowed to leave without detainment.
On October 24, 2023, City Comptroller Brad Lander also made an appearance at the immigration court, continuing the push to hold ICE accountable. The ongoing scrutiny from both the press and local politicians is crucial as families continue to navigate this increasingly hostile environment.
The implications of ICE’s changing tactics are significant and concerning. This new approach not only affects the immediate safety of families but also raises questions about the broader enforcement strategies being employed. As this situation develops, the urgent need for oversight and advocacy remains clear.
Authorities and local leaders are expected to respond more aggressively as public outcry grows. The community is watching closely, and the actions taken in the coming days will be critical in shaping the future of immigration enforcement in New York City.
